Oregon’s Rising Craft Spirits Scene: Distilleries to Visit in 2025
Deep in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, a revolution is bubbling. Unseen by the casual visitor, Oregon’s burgeoning craft spirits scene is gaining an efficacious reputation. From high up in the Cascade Mountains to the fertile Willamette Valley, Oregon’s terroir offers an array of flavors ready to be tasted and savored.1. Westward Whiskey
Start in Portland at Westward Whiskey, an acclaimed distillery that’s bringing new depth to American Single Malt. This spot is known for its meticulous distilling process, with each batch fermented and distilled in small quantities. Its famous Westward American Single Malt is a must-try classic, showcasing the pure, robust flavor of Pacific Northwest two-row barley.2. Aria Portland Dry Gin
Nestled in the Puddletown’s Historic Pearl District, Aria Portland Dry Gin offers a classic London dry style gin with a Portland twist. Ask for a guided tasting to experience the careful balance of ten botanicals that make up Portland’s most awarded gin.3. Clear Creek Distillery
Surround yourself with the fragrance of ripe fruit at Clear Creek Distillery, recognized by locals for its world-class fruit eau de vie made with Oregon-grown pears, apples, cherries, and plums. Their Oregon Single Malt Whiskey, distilled from 100% malted two-row barley, pays homage to the Scottish traditional style.
4. Bull Run Distilling Company
Sit back and enjoy gritty views of industrial Northwest Portland at Bull Run Distilling Company, creators of award-winning whiskeys showcasing the flavors of the Pacific Northwest. Be sure to taste their Pinot Noir finished American Whiskey, an exemplary mash-up of two Oregon artisanal classics.5. Oregon Spirit Distillers
Head south to Bend and stop by Oregon Spirit Distillers. Their Absinthe is a unique departure, distilled using homegrown wormwood, green anise, and fennel. If absinthe isn’t your thing, their award-winning Wild Card Absinthe is a game-changer.6. Ransom Wine Co. & Distillery
A journey through Oregon’s craft spirit scene isn’t complete without a visit to Ransom Wine Co. & Distillery, in the fertile Yamhill County. They’re known for reviving pre-prohibition drinks by using traditional methods and locally sourced, organic ingredients. Try ‘The Emerald,’ a nod to early Irish whiskeys.7. Trail Distilling
Charge up the Tesla and head to Oregon City to visit Trail Distilling. As the first distillery in the First City west of the Mississippi since Prohibition, this eco-conscious distillery prides itself on making spirits from scratch using locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss their gin journey, which presents a tasting flight of their award-winning Trillium gins.8. Pilot House Distilling
Hit the stunningly scenic Highway 101 to the coastal paradise of Astoria for a visit to Pilot House Distilling. Their award-winning Oregon vodka, flavored with wild-foraged botanicals, goes tickle-tickly with the sea breeze.9. Wolf Spirit Distillery
Further east, nestled in the quaint town of Eugene is Wolf Spirit Distillery. It claims fame by using deep well water sourced directly from the Cascade Mountains for its spirits. Puncher’s Chance Bourbon is a crowd-pleaser, with its flavor profile balancing spice, sweet, and heat.10. McMenamins Edgefield Distillery
Last but not least, a pilgrimage to McMenamins Edgefield Distillery in Troutdale is a must. This historic spot, with lush garden grounds and stunning views of the Columbia Gorge, has been distilling traditional spirits since 1998. Treat yourself to the Billy Whiskey, a loving homage to Oregon’s distilling heritage.There you have it, a taste-piquing tour of Oregon’s rising craft spirit scene. Whether whiskey, gin, or something more experimental tickles your fancy, an adventure through these distilleries is sure to please. Remember to savor each sip and cherish every moment as Oregon’s breathtaking landscapes and flavorful spirits interlace to bring you an unforgettable experience.